Tennis legend Chris Evert, 71, announces third cancer diagnosis: 'A disease that doesn't stop'

Chris Evert, the tennis queen of the 1970s and '80s, has been diagnosed with cancer for the third time at age 71.

Evert announced Wednesday (local time) on Instagram that she learned of the recurrence after undergoing CT and PET scans the previous weekend. "I have already had surgery as the first step in treatment and recovery, and I plan to begin chemotherapy within the next few weeks," she said.

Evert, who captivated fans worldwide in the 1970s and '80s with both her exceptional skill and her elegant appearance, said she is stepping back from her ESPN commentary duties at this year's Wimbledon and other commitments to focus on her recovery.

A winner of 18 Grand Slam singles titles — spanning the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open — Evert ranks among the greatest players in women's tennis history. She is also credited with giving rise to the term "tennis bracelet," now used by jewelers around the world.

The name traces back to a 1978 US Open match, when a diamond bracelet Evert was wearing fell onto the court, briefly halting play. The moment drew wide attention, and the design — previously known as a "diamond line bracelet" — became universally known as a "tennis bracelet" from that point on.

Evert had previously been diagnosed with ovarian cancer twice, in 2021 and 2023, and recovered through chemotherapy on both occasions.

Describing her latest diagnosis as "a disease that doesn't stop," she expressed gratitude to her medical team, family, friends and all those who sent support and encouragement. "I look forward to seeing you all again soon," she said.